PUTRAJAYA: The Social Security Organisation (Socso) will conduct a thorough investigation within seven working days on claims from individuals who have lost their jobs this year since the implementation of the Employment Insurance System (EIS) on Monday.

Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri Richard Riot said if the claims are found to be true, the individuals who lost their jobs stand to receive the EIS interim benefit payment of RM600 for a maximum of three months under the Employment Insurance System Act 2017.

Riot said his ministry had received 33 applications for the EIS interim benefit so far.

“The interim benefit is funded by the Government with an allocation of RM122mil channelled to Socso.

He said the EIS is a social safety net programme, involving job insurance and employment services, that provides temporary financial benefits, job search, job placement, career counselling and training to help the jobless find work.

“This move is implemented to strengthen the social security protection as well as those who have lost their jobs.

“They will be specifically assisted in obtaining new jobs through the services available,” he added.

The implementation of EIS, said Riot, will also benefit and protect the interest of 6.5 million existing workers under the Employees Social Security Act 1969.

Those who want further information can call Socso at 1300 228 000 or visit www.perkeso.gov.my/sp or go to the Socso offices nationwide.Meanwhile, Socso chairman Tan Sri Dr Aseh Che Mat said the organisation is estimating a collection of RM479.5mil from the EIS this year from 430,000 employers and 6.6 million workers.He said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak would be launching the EIS this month at Wisma Perkeso. — Bernama